The state of Minnesota is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With nearly 700 miles of bike trails, you can explore many regions of the state by bike. If you prefer hiking, there are numerous hiking opportunities including the 205-mile-long Superior Hiking Trail located in northeastern Minnesota.
Minnesota is also home to the largest canoe wilderness area east of the Mississippi River and several rivers that are well suited for kayaking. Campgrounds and resorts are located throughout the state to keep you close to all the outdoor activities.
Geographic Regions
Known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," Minnesota has five geographic regions. Each region has its own distinct geographic features and attractions. The northeastern region of Minnesota is home to Duluth and the Boundary Water Canoe Area Wilderness where you might be fortunate enough to spot a moose, hear the lonely cry of a loon or watch the Northern Lights during your camping trip. Bordering Lake Superior, the summer nights are cool and air-conditioning is seldom needed in this area of the state.
The northwest region boasts the start of the Mississippi River and some of Minnesota's largest lakes. Central Minnesota serves as the heart of the state and is home to cities such as St. Cloud, Brainerd and Alexandria. The Metro Area surrounds the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul and keeps you close to urban bike trails, zoos and the Mall of America. There's something for everyone in southern Minnesota, which offers campers views of vast prairie, historic bluffs and rolling countryside.
Canoe Area
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is the Midwest's best kept secrets. Located in the northeastern section of Minnesota, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is in the Superior National Forest. You can choose to canoe your way across the lakes and pitch a tent in one of the designated 1,200 primitive camping spots or pick a campground bordering the area. You can also find all the amenities of home at campgrounds and resorts in the neighboring cities of Ely and Grand Marais, Minnesota.
Metro Area
The Metro Area surrounding Minneapolis and St. Paul offer plenty of camping opportunities, all a short drive from downtown. Dakota County, located south of the Twin Cities has two campgrounds that welcome RVs and tents. The St. Paul East RV Park also is designed for accommodate tents and RVs as well.
If you are looking for a rustic escape close to the cities, Afton State Park features hike-in camping sites as well as some of the best hiking in the area. If your trip includes kids, consider the Water Park of America resort located next to the Mall of America.
Winter Camping
The winter season is fully embraced in Minnesota. The lakes are covered with ice houses for ice fishing, cross country trails are abuzz with activity, and a few brave souls choose to take in the peace and quiet of camping during the winter months. Several Minnesota state parks offer winter camping either by tent or in one of their camper cabins. Common winter camping destinations include George H. Crosby Manitou State Park, Afton State Park and Tettegouche St. Park. Most camping resorts throughout the state are open year around as well.
RV-Friendly
No matter where you intend to travel in the state, there are several RV-friendly campgrounds located throughout Minnesota. From wooded settings to lakeside camp sites, you can find a campground to relax and get away from it all. Many campgrounds provide free Internet access as well. Modern campgrounds provide electric and water hook-ups, showers, restrooms and access to an on-site dump station.
State Parks
Minnesota has several state parks located in every region of the state. In total, the state park system provides over 3,000 campsites as well as cabins and lodging options. Itasca State Park located in northwestern Minnesota has a campground, lodge, cabins and group lodging centers. In southern Minnesota, Nerstrand Big Woods State Park provides both tent and RV camp sites. All state park modern campgrounds provide a picnic table, fire ring and access to modern shower and restroom facilities.
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